Yes Chrissy thank you so much for saying that.  

There are so many cultural differences in the United States.  Being respectful and non judgmental is key for open conversation.  

It has been interesting to me to see the differences in how people are responding to covid,  gender terminology etc.  Population density, science, culture are all mixing together and it's a scary and interesting time sociologically.

One of the things I really appreciate about dance is that it brings people together who may be drastically  different from one another culturally.  It can be very healing and help us experience what we have in common.  That's part of why I dance!!

On Sat, Apr 8, 2023, 8:09 AM Chrissy Fowler via Organizers <organizers@lists.sharedweight.net> wrote:
Dear organizers, 

On a slightly different topic, when I read Darlene's post, I nodded my head at this:
I seldom chime in on things, though I lurk in the background, due to people going on the defense or sometimes attacking. I am only posting so you have some information on what we are doing here in our part of the world. 

This has been true for me lately. (But Darlene's willingness to share emboldened me to share data from our dance series. Thanks Darlene!)

I hope that this list can be a place where divergent experiences are shared, and where those varied perspectives are received respectfully, knowing they're offered with the intent of helping others in their organizing work. 

When I have questions or seek clarification or want to challenge that perspective, I know that I can either pursue those conversations off list (1:1 email, phone call or in person) or I can respond on the list with careful kindness and respect, hoping that the other person will respond in kind.

When a listserv devolves into attacking or defensiveness, then the list members are effectively silencing people like Darlene. Which is a loss for all of us.

But when many voices are heard, I learn new things, have my assumptions challenged, and get nudged into more complex thinking. And I can return to my community with fresh ideas.

Which is the point of this listserv :)

Cheers,
Chrissy

<><><><><><>
chrissyfowler.com dance leadership
belfastflyingshoes.org participatory dance & music
_______________________________________________
Organizers mailing list -- organizers@lists.sharedweight.net
To unsubscribe send an email to organizers-leave@lists.sharedweight.net